5 Most Common Leaky Roof Problems: Why Annual Roof Assessments Are Essential

Key Takeaways:

• Wet spots on the ceiling do not indicate that the leak just started.
• Let’s do the math: Cost of an annual roof assessment with maintenance vs. cost of roof repairs.
• The #1 question a customer must ask a contractor before hiring them for a repair.

Did you know that 99% of homeowners never have their roofs inspected yearly? This lack of maintenance is costing them thousands of dollars in repairs. Homeowners rarely ever think about their roofs unless there is a leak.

The 15-50 years a roof is supposed to last can only happen with annual Roof Assessments and maintenance. The harsh weather in Texas will wear down any roof and reduce its useful life expectancy to half without proper care. What can you do better? In this post, we’ll break down the five most common leaky roof problems and explain why annual roof assessments and even light maintenance can change your outcome.

1. Cracked or Missing Shingles

Shingles are your roof’s first line of defense against the elements. Over time, exposure to sun, wind, and rain can cause shingles to crack, curl, or go missing entirely. In South Texas areas, from San Antonio to Dallas, wind and hail storms from March to July are intense. They can potentially cause one or both of these problems.

Common Causes:

• Harsh weather conditions (storms, hail, high winds).
• Aging and general wear and tear.
• Improper installation.

Hail can crack your shingles depending on its intensity and duration. Even small, seemingly insignificant hail may cause granules to loosen and detach over time. Hail storms speed up the process of granular loss. Once many granules detach from the roof shingles over a few years, the shingles will crack. 

Hail sizes even have names now, due to how common they occur in Texas such as grapefruit-size (4.5 inches in diameter). This good report by NOAA explains briefly how a hail storm forms and works

Wind, on the other hand, may cause shingles to blow off depending on the storm severity, the type of shingles your roof has, and how well your roof was installed. In some cases, storms that aren’t strong enough to blow off shingles may still cause them to flap back and forth. This action creates a bruise on the shingle, which is severe damage, even when it remains in place. 

This damage is impossible for a homeowner to spot from the ground. A professional roof assessment will find these problems. Missing or cracked shingles leave your roof vulnerable to water infiltration.

Solution: Spot repairs or partial Roof Replacements can address this issue. Contacting your trusted roofing contractor after a storm to verify your roof’s integrity is crucial, regardless of whether you think the storm was severe or mild.

However, some roofing problems caused by improper installation are fixable if you entrust it to a local and professional roofing contractor specializing in a niche (e.g., flat roof repair, leak repair, Roof Spot Repair, skylight repair, chimney repair).

Annual roof inspections can identify damaged shingles before they lead to significant leaks.

2. Flashing Failures

Flashing is the thin material that seals roof edges, valleys, and areas around chimneys, skylights, and vents. Water can seep into these vulnerable spots when the flashing is damaged or improperly installed.

Common Causes:

• Corrosion due to weather exposure.
• Improper installation techniques.
• Aging materials.

Improper installation techniques are the number one reason for flashing failure. This problem often stems from dishonest contractors and cost-focused customers. Customers who prioritize low cost as the main factor when choosing a contractor are disadvantaged.

Some contractors who are mainly focused on making money may not include the proper cost to repair flashings, making their quotes appear lower than competitors who include proper flashing repair. This often results in winning the job but leaving the roof vulnerable to leaks. It’s highly recommended that all flashings (e.g., chimney flashing, wall flashing, skylight flashing) be completely replaced whenever the roof is replaced.

A good contractor who includes this cost will do a proper job, ensuring the roof remains leak-free in the future.

A bad contractor who charges less often uses roof cement or other sealants or fastens the flashing improperly, leading to leaks months or years later. When the leak appears, the original contractor may be unwilling to repair their mistake, leaving the homeowner to hire someone else at significant additional cost.

Solution: If you have already replaced your roof, start your first annual assessment as soon as possible. A professional can check for loose or deteriorated flashing and reseal or replace it. You can prevent these and many other issues and avoid structural damage.

If you are considering replacing your roof soon, familiarize yourself with the types of flashing on your roof.

Ask contractors for details about their flashing process. If they say they will only reseal, that’s not a good answer. If they say they will replace the flashing, ask for it in writing. Also, request photos of the replacement process for your records.

3. Age and General Wear and Tear

As roofs age, materials naturally degrade, making them more prone to leaks. In areas of Texas, such as San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, and South Texas, the scorching heat will wear down everything it touches, especially during 90+ degree weather days, which are common.

Signs of Aging:

• Discolored or curling shingles.
• Frequent leaks.

Solution: Annual assessments can help determine when wear and tear is happening. The assessment process will give the roof inspector an idea of what solutions are needed to keep the roof in top shape and even slow down the wear and tear, potentially saving you from costly emergency repairs or even a complete replacement during the stormy months.

4. Roof Vent and Other Roof Penetration Leaks

Roof vents, plumbing boots, jacks, and other roofing accessories play vital roles in the roof’s ecosystem but are also common sources of leaks. Cracked housings, broken seams, or worn gaskets can allow water to enter your home.

Common Causes:

• Weather-related damage.
• Poor sealing during installation.
• General wear over time.
• Poor quality materials (plastic vs. metal).

Solution: A thorough annual roof inspection can identify vent issues and ensure they are appropriately sealed or replaced as necessary. This will ensure that all problems are properly identified before they become serious.

5. Clogged Gutters and Drainage Issues

Gutters will get clogged with leaves, dirt, and debris, and water can pool and back up onto the roof. Over time, this excess moisture can seep into the roofline and cause leaks.

Impact:

• Rotting fascia boards.
• Mold and mildew growth.
• Potential structural damage to your home.

Solution: Regular gutter cleaning and ensuring proper downspout flow are essential. Annual inspections can identify potential drainage problems before they cause significant damage.

Why Annual Roof Assessments Are Essential

1. Early Detection of Problems: Regular inspections catch small issues before they become major headaches. For example, catching a cracked shingle can save you from extensive water damage.
2. Protect Your Investment: Your roof is one of your home’s most significant investments. Annual assessments help extend its lifespan, ensuring you get the most value for your money.
3. Save Money: Proactive care minimizes the risk of emergency repairs, which are often more expensive than routine maintenance.
4. Improve Energy Efficiency: A well-maintained roof provides better insulation, keeping your home comfortable and reducing energy costs.

Take it from the experts at GAF,  the leading roofing materials manufacturer with the best selling shingle in the US on how important doing a once a year roof assessment is crucial.

Let’s do the math:

• How much does a Roof Assessment Cost? A professional roof assessment includes photos, a report, and possibly a video showing the homeowner everything on the roof. Such a report can cost between $99 and $199.
• How much does a roof repair cost? The minimum cost to repair a couple of missing shingles is around $300. Leak repairs, depending on complexity, can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars, even for a few hours of work.
• How much does a new roof cost? The average cost to replace a shingle roof varies by size, materials, and other factors but typically ranges from $8,000 to $40,000.

In summary, a professionally done roof assessment can provide critical information about the exact roof’s condition, outline ways to protect it, and help avoid major expenses for just a fraction of the cost of other options.

Understanding the causes of roof problems and taking action today can save you stress, money, and risk of decay and mold. Yearly roof assessments should be seen as an excellent return rather than an expense, ensuring your roof remains strong and reliable year-round. 

Don’t let a minor roof problem become an expensive emergency. Neglecting one of the most essential parts of your home is not recommended. Ultimately, your roof protects your family, belongings, and well-being, keeping you dry and shielded from extreme weather.

Need a thorough, professional roof assessment? Don’t let small leaks turn into big problems. Schedule your free roof assessment with Roofing Services Now! Our experienced team ensures your roof stays strong and reliable all year round. 
Contact us today at (210) 988-0188 or visit www.RoofingServicesNow.com. We serve San Antonio, Bexar County, and all of South Texas from Austin to Corpus Christi and the Texas Hill Country.